Category: Game Day

Here We Go Again + Keys to Beating the Broncos

Another year, another star player going scorched earth. Yes, the Raiders pulled out an impressive home victory after looking dead in the water. And Davante Adams reportedly wants a trade.

At this point, Raiders fans should be numb to dysfunction. This ain’t quite Randy Moss, Amari Cooper or Antonio Brown. It is dissapointing to hear Adamas wants out after he said he would retire in the Silver and Black.

Still, Raiders fans have to be realistic. Was this team really going to win a Super Bowl with Adams? Not with what they have at QB. Therefore, trading Adams makes sense. The Raiders proved this week they can win without him. Trading him feels even more right if the Raiders can get a first round pick. That is more than Stefon Diggs got traded for. Obviously, that ends the nice home narrative.

Trading Adams for more than a second round pick feels like an unlikely scenario though. Adams wants a trade to the Saints or Jets. He wants to play with his old QBs. However, neither of those teams really need a receiver. Dallas makes sense but their season seems to be going a different direction. Pittsburgh might also make a call, but their QB situation is only slightly better than the Raiders.

Head coach Antonio Pierce proved he didn’t lose the locker room yet. This drama is a red flag, considering Adams was in Pierce’s corner. More players could easily turn on Pierce if the losses keep coming.

Last week, the team found a way to make enough plays versus the Browns. Cleveland could’ve easily won that game but they didn’t. Alexander Mattison was really the ex-factor as he popped off some big runs. He will get the start with Zach Moss out. Mattison struggled as the starter in Minnesota last year. He may hurt against a tough Denver defense if the offense can’t stretch the field. The Broncos allowed the 12th most rushing yards this season.

Gardner Minshew needs to be more effective this week. He only completed 14 passes for 130 yards. Minshew threw no interceptions or touchdowns. He has to step his game up with Adams out for another game. Brock Bowers only caught a couple of passes. He needs a better week too. Denver allowed the third least passing yards this year.

The Raiders’ offensive line forfeited two sacks to Myles Garrett. That is expected with the injuries they had at tackle. Kolton Miller should be back this week, even if Thayer Munford is out. The pass rush should improve this week since the Broncos don’t have an elite rusher like Garrett.

Otherwise, we saw Brock Bowers get a rush attempt last week. Let’s see the Raiders sprinkle in some trickery with Tre Tucker and Jakobi Meyers. If the offense struggles to get them the ball downfield, try to get them the ball with some blockers in front.

Overall, this week should feature a defensive battle. Denver is off a win where they threw for less than 100 yards. They did find Courtland Sutton for a TD reception. His size could give the Raiders problems.

Vegas also needs to stop the run. Last week, both Jaleel McLaughlin and Javonte Williams averaged over 4.5 yards-per-carry. Ideally, they offer a blend of power and explosiveness. They combined for 123 rushing yards against a stout Jets defense.

The Raiders manufactured pass rush last week. Janarius Robinson and Christian Wilkins split a sack. Charles Snowden and Isaiah Pola-Mao got home too. Vegas needs similar contributions across the board this week.

Safety Trevon Moehrig came up big with an interception last week. It was one of Watson’s only mistakes in the entire game. The Raiders need more plays from their DBs this week. They also don’t want to make it easy with any blown coverages. Vegas almost gave up a huge passing play to Amari Cooper.

Denver fields a young QB who doesn’t take a lot of chances. The Raiders need to stay discipline rushing the passer. Apply pressure but don’t force Bo Nix into 8 rush attempts like they did Watson.

We will find out who the Raiders are this week. Will this offense find a spark with Adams out? Can Mattison claim the starting RB role with White out? Do they trade Adams or find a way to work it out? Are the Raiders the team that edged out the Ravens and Browns? Or are they the team that got outclassed by the Panthers and Chargers?

The Raiders need to establish the run and find ways to spread the ball around to a variety of play makers. They will need to nickel and dime this stingy Denver Defense. Corner Patrick Surtain has an edge on every Raiders receiver, with Adams out.

Defensively, the Raiders will again need to get creative to generate pass rush. Crosby leaves a crater on the defense, but Tyree Wilson needs to step up. Robinson and Snowden are great stories but we can only rely on them so much. Wilkins needs to dominate against the run and pass. All the Raiders need to tackle well against a slippery Denver backfield. Vegas needs to play physical versus an equally desperate AFC West rival.

A win here steadies the Raiders against all these distractions. Losing sets them back more in the standings and they lose leverage with Adams. They have a tough stretch of schedule before their bye week in a month.

Ultimately, the Raiders need to establish their identity against the Broncos. Denver has yet to beat the Vegas Raiders. There is no need to start now.

Keys for starting a win streak

Vegas secured a somewhat surprising win on the road last week. Here is how they can win their home opener.

At some point in the fourth quarter, it seemed like the Raiders were not going to outlast the Ravens. The Ravens established the run with Derek Henry finishing the day with 84 rushing yards on 18 carries. Vegas starting runner Zamir White struggled again. He finished with only 24 yards on 9 carries.

The Silver and Black were efficient in the passing game. Gardner Mishnew completed 30-of-38 passes for 276 passing yards and one touchdown. Davante Adams finished with nine receptions for 110 receivng yards. Rookie toght end Brock Bowers finished with 98 receiving yards on 9 receptions. Mishnew completed passes to four other Raiders players too. It was about as solid of a game as one could expect in the air. Of course, minus the five sacks and one interception Mishnew registered in Baltimore.

Defensively, the Raiders held Lamar Jackson to 247 passing yards and 45 rushing yards. He found the end zone only once. Maxx Crosby found a way to register two sacks, despite the defensive group being banged up. The Raiders won with their defense on the field. This close game reminded me of the Seth Roberts games versus the Ravens last decade. Vegas found a way to win.

Now, they open the 2024 season against a Carolina Panthers team that made headlines for their decision to bench 2023 No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young. Carolina got blown out by both the Los Angeles Chargers and New Orleans Saints. They’ve scored 13 points combined over the first two games. The Panthers expect veteran QB Andy Dalton to help their fortunes.

Dalton is not known for his big arm. He can manage an offense and get the ball out. Receivers Adam Thielen and Diontae Johnson have had success in the league. Jonathan Mingo and Xavier Legett bring some youth out of the slot. Carolina also has versatility out of the backfield with Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders.

The Raiders need to play discipline and tackle well. They can not afford to give up any big plays to an offense that is desperate to find some rhythm. It could be a long day if Johnson converts a big play. Thielen or Sanders could also extend a short pass.

Otherwise, the Panthers invested in their interior line this offseason. They added guards Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis in the offseason. Neither Sanders or Hubbard have been effective runners. Young was also sacked six times over the first two games. Young is more mobile than Dalton at this point. The Raiders must get home to the QB.

Of course, Christian Wilkins, Tyree Wilson and Crosby are all listed as questionable for this game. Malcolm Koonce is done for the year. The Raiders need to create pressure to force Dalton into bad throws, no matter who plays d-line. He is a rythm passer.

Defensively, the Panthers are not the same unit as years prior. Defensive lineman Derrick Brown is on IR. They let Brian Burns and Yetur Gross-Matos walk. Carolina is left with veterans like Jadaveon Clowney and A’Shawn Robinson. Second-year edge DJ Johnson does bring some speed, which the Raiders tackles could struggle against.

In the secondary, the Raiders should have favorable matchups. Outside of Jaycee Horn at corner, Carolina fields a bunch of veterans. Safeties Xavier Woods and Jordan Fuller are proven starters. However, they lack the size and ball skills against the Raiders’ TEs. Troy Hill and Mike Jackson are the other corners. Jakobi Meyes and Tre Tucker bring the explosiveness to win those matchups. Adams size and physicality should also dominate this corner group. Mishnew needs to keep getting the ball out to his playmakers, efficiently.

Otherwise, the Raiders have yet to really establish their running game. All their key players should be good to go today. At home, Zamir White needs a big game. Ideally, White needs to help the team sit on a lead and control the clock.

Vegas should absolutely win this game if they can run the ball, throw the ball efficiently, play discipline defense, and pressure the quarterback. A 2-1 start would feed the Antonio Pierce bandwagon. It should give them some momentum headed into a physical matchup against the Cleveland Browns next week.

The Raiders cannot afford to overlook the Carolina Panthers. They cannot underestimate this winless team. You don’t want to play down to their level. You do want to continue to establishing your identity. Vegas needs to set the tone and showcase their identity as a playoff contender.

How the Raiders can bounce back in Baltimore

The Raiders looked underwhelming against the Chargers in Week One. They will need their best effort to not get blown out Today.

We all know Vegas’ struggles going to the East Coast on the road, historically. The Raiders also struggle to contain running QBs and TEs. Not only do the Ravens have one of the best playmakers at QB but they have two TEs with playmaking abilities. Isaiah Likely is a dynamic athlete and Mark Andrews is an institution. Lamar Jackson is one of the best in the business.

Plus, the Ravens were a toe away from beating the Chiefs on opening night. Baltimore will look for revenge in their Home Opener. The Raiders will have their hands full containing Jackson and the Ravens offense.

Last week, the Raiders run defense got worn down by JK Dobbins. Now, they will have their hands full with Derek Henry. Henry basically upgraded Dobbins, anyways. Baltimore receivers Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman are good for big plays too. Baltimore also features a one-time Raider in Nelson Agholor.

Defensively, Baltimore brings playmakers at each level. Hybrid safety Kyle Hamilton and safety Marcus Williams are among the best on the back end. Corner Marlon Humphrey and linebacker Roquon Smith are also among the best at their positions. Humphrey and Adams should be a solid matchup while Smith, Hamilton and Williams can neutralize the Raiders’ TE duo of Michael Mayer and Brock Bowers.

Edge Odafe Oweh offers the speed and athleticism that the Raiders tackles can struggle against. Defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike also got paid after a breakout season last year. He should disrupt the Raiders’ pocket. Vegas allowed four sacks last week. That can not happen this week on the road again.

A lot of blame for last week’s loss fell on head coach Antonio Pierce and some of his questionable decisions. We will see how the Raiders bounce-back after a crushing loss to a rival. Reminder – Davante Adams and Maxx Crosby basically begged for this guy’s job. Pierce needs to be perfect in situational football.

Quarterback Gardner Minshew was actually pretty effecient for the Raiders last week. He completed 25 of 33 passes and Minshew utilized all kinds of weapons. Minshew needs a similar performance this week. He needs to find the end zone more than once, though. Last week, the passing game only scored on a short pass to Alexander Mattison. Minshew cannot turn the ball over versus a Ravens defense with playmakers at each level as well.

Ultimately, the Raiders won the time of possession battle last week despite never fully establishing their run game. Starting running back Zamir White finished with 44 rushing yards on 13 carries. The Raiders hyped up White as the new starter all offseason but they still used Mattison a ton. Vegas needs to count on White to control the clock. He needs to finish this week with a higher yards-per-carry so they can stay in-front of the chains.

The Ravens (head coach John Harbaugh) have a similar identity as the Chargers (head coach Jim Harbaugh) because their head coaches share a bloodline. Except, Baltimore’s offense is a lot more explosive and their defense is way more proven. The gameplan should not change much this week, but the Raiders need to execute better.

Vegas must establish the run game. White needs a much better week even if he is playing a better defense. Staying in front of the chains makes life easier for the pass game. It also keeps Lamar Jackson off the field.

The Silver and Black needs to push the ball downfield and find a way to convert a big play. Mishnew needs to be perfect. Don’t take four sacks and don’t throw any interceptions. It will also help if he can throw more than one long-ball.

Defensively, the Raiders need to tackle better. Henry is an even bigger bruiser than both the backs the Raiders faced last week. He can easily put a dagger in the Raiders if the Ravens get a big lead. He can also control the game early if the Raiders come out soft.

Jackson is one of the toughest QBs to sack. Not only is he dynamic running with the ball, but he gets the ball out quick. Ideally, the Raiders need more than one sack. That may not be possible versus Jackson. The Silver and Black will be down another edge rusher with Tyree Wilson out too. It will also help if Christian Wilkins and company can push the pocket from the inside.

Either way, the Raiders’ edges need to stay discipline and keep contain. Expect Baltimore to challenge Maxx Crosby by running the ball at him.

The Raiders secondary can do their part by limiting big plays. Forcing an interception or fumble is absolutely necessary given all the talent Baltimore has at the skill positions too. No fights or penalties this week please.

This game feels a bit overwhelming on the road. No excuses. The Raiders need to show up with energy early. Again, that is why they kept Pierce. Otherwise, the Silver and Black will be headed into their home opener desperate for their first win.

Nonetheless, Pierce can get his Raiders back on track if he can establish their identity. Run the ball, push the ball downfield, stay discipline on defense and take the ball away. A win over a contender like the Ravens could do a lot for the Raiders’ confidence.

Can the Raiders finally get it done for the LA fans?

A lot of Raiders fans will be in SoFi hoping to witness the Raiders get their first win in the Chargers’ home since the COVID season. Many Chargers fans will hope Jim Harbaugh’s new era starts with a victory over the Raiders.

The Raiders offseason was headlined by additions to the trenches. Vegas added a linemen in the second and third round of the NFL Draft. Third-rounder Dj Glaze is the backup right tackle. Second-rounder Jackson Powers-Johnson is the backup left guard after injuries most of the offseason. They also added veterans Andrus Peat and Cody Whitehair. Both bring guard and tackle experience. Whitehair is starting at guard and Peat is backup at left tackle. Vegas made these moves to win these physical division games.

Los Angeles also made moves along their offensive and defensive fronts. Defensively, the Chargers added Bud Dupree to an already deep defensive line. We know what Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack can do. They are explosive technicians. Tuli Tuipulotu should thrive with even more depth around them. Morgan Fox has thrived as a tackle/end since joining the Chargers. Defensive Poona Ford comes over from the Bills. He has experience in multiples schemes. Otito Ogbonnia enters his first season as a starter. They will need those big bodies versus the Raiders’ front.

Of course, the key matchup is whoever lines up against Mack. Mack balls every time he plays the Silver and Black. No six-sack game, please? Thayer Munford has been a mix-bag in camp. Munford struggles with speed so Mack and Dupree might hurt them.

Enter Zamir White. He showed enough to warrant being the unquestioned starter last year. Now he needs to make good versus an improved Chargers’ front-seven. Los Angeles added Denzel Perryman to improve the run defense. Daiyan Henley is going to be relied on more. That gives the Chargers a chance to play both the run and the pass out of of their base defense. White will get no favors versus this front.

That is where the Raiders receivers come in. The Chargers’ most glaring weakness is on the backend. Safety Alohi Gilman and corner ja’Sir Taylor got some time last year. They found ways to make plays. We know Derwin James and Asante Samuel Jr. are proven playmakers. Still, the Raiders haven’t spent all that money at receiver, and all those draft picks at tight ends, to lose this matchup.

Rookie TE Brock Bowers was selected high to own the hashes and make contested catches over folks like Derwin James and Henley. They’re also going need TE Michael Mayer to help them too. Mayer can also be a security blanket. Vegas knows Davante Adams can win the one-on-one outside. They know Jakobi Meyers is good for a couple of big plays. However, they need their tight ends to eat on some of the junk plays they hoped Hunter Renfrow would do last year.

Moving to defense, the Raiders will be down Malcolm Koonce. Koonce has dealt with injuries before but this is worse since it is a contract year. The Raiders needed big performances out of him.

Now, back to hoping Tyree Wilson develops ASAP. Wilson and Crosby will draw Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater. Some predict this is one of the best offensive tackle groups around. Crosby is going to have his work cut out for him. The Chargers have had success on the edges versus the Raiders. Wilson needs to play with his hands. It will be a long day as the Chargers will run right at those ends.

Vegas signed Christian Wilkins to get pressure from the middle of the defense. Los Angeles is weak at the center of their offense. Wilkins needs to win at the point of the attack to kill the run and push the pocket. We know the Chargers want to establish the run.

Overall, the Raiders secondary received a lot of praise in camp. The Chargers receivers received the opposite reaction. Rookie receiver Ladd McConkey stole the attention. Receiver Josh Palmer has burned the Raiders before. Receiver Quentin Johnston is a threat on paper. Corners Jack Jones, Jakorian Bennett and Nate Hobbs should win these matchups but big plays happen with Justin Herbert at QB. The Raiders secondary group must be discipline.

An interception from the Raiders safeties and linebackers won’t hurt. Linebacker Robert Spillane started last year as a turnover-machine. Safety Tre’von Moehrig is off his best season as a pro. Safety Marcus Epps is a big earner and linebacker Divine Deablo is finally healthy. The Raiders bet on this group getting better as a collective.

In the end, the Raiders need to establish their identity. Both the Chargers and Raiders are going to try and establish the run. Each team wants to get after the quarterback. Neither team has a proven commodity at RB. The difference is the Raiders got an elite receiver and the Chargers have a top QB. Big plays are going to be the difference but this game is going to start upfront.

Vegas has a chance if they can stop the run and pressure Herbert. Otherwise, they need to get White moving the ball. Get him going earlt and often. The Raiders need to hit on big plays with Adams and Bowers. Make this easy on QB Gardner Minshew. If the Raiders can play their brand of football, there is no reason why SoFi won’t be filled with happy Raiders fans.

Winning this game is key to officially starting the Antonio Pierce era. We all know the statistics as far as interim coaches. Pierce needs to win these close division matchups. He needs to prove he can carry last year’s second-half momentum into this year with a huge win.

Ending the Season on a High Note

The Raiders had a lot to play for last week. Put it on the refs or whatever. Either way, the team lost and their playoffs hopes went down the drain too.

Indianapolis is a tough team with a good mix of youth and talent. They went through their own adversity this year but still found themselves in the playoff hunt until last night.

Vegas didn’t get the same production out of Zamir White in the run game. Give some credit to the Colts’ front seven. DeForesr Buckner was a problem versus the run and pass. The Silver and Black did get the ball to Davante Adams. They also spread it around to Jakobi Meyers and Zamir White. Both had five plus catches.

The Raiders won the time possession but didn’t force a turnover. They also got only one sack. None of the edges got home.

That has to change versus a familiar foe. Vegas began their season with a close win over the Broncos. Now, they play Denver at home with former Raiders QB Jared Stidham making the start. Denver benched Russell Wilson for financial reasons, which may also land them in court. That’s another story. Either way, Vegas needs to get pressure on the QB and force him into mistakes.

The Silver and Black will also be tested against the run. Javonte Williams hasn’t been great this year in terms of yards or touchdowns. However, he’s a big back who can break tackles and catch the ball out of the backfield. Vegas can’t let him end the year with a breakout game, especially since they’ll be without starting receiver Courtland Sutton again.

Ultimately, the Broncos secondary offers household names with Justin Simmons and Pat Surtain. Adams is not going to have the same kind of game. They’re also banged up at tackle with Thayer Munford out as well as Kolton Miller and Jermaine Eluemunor battling injuries all season. Therefore, it’s going to be on Zamir White to make some plays as he is expected to start for Josh Jacobs again. This is White’s audition for the starting role next year. A big game here makes it tough to keep Jacobs or sign another starter in the backfield.

Speaking of auditions, Antonio Pierce is still trying to earn his keep. Reports say the Raiders let their assistants look for new jobs. That may or may not indicate Pierce returns. Either way, it feels like they will go through a bigger higher if process rather than just giving it to Pierce.

John Harbaugh and yes Jon Gruden are the other names. Harbaugh will be the hottest name on the market given his standing with Michigan. If he brings home a title in spite of an earlier suspension, an NFL team will definitely give him a king’s ransom. Gruden should be done and never coach again given his lack of success in his second stint and those emails. I get he is a friend of Mark Davis but that doesn’t mean he deserves to be on a sideline right now. If anything keep him as an advisor.

Win or lose, Pierce has proven he is a leader of men. Many Raiders legends have bought into him given how he has the defense inspired. The whole team is playing with swagger. It’s hard to bet against him given how he beat the Chargers and Chiefs. It’s also hard to just give him the keys given how they lost to Indianapolis and Minnesota in crucial spots.

Current players have also gone on record saying they want Pierce. Unfortunately, that only means so much since many players might not even be around next year. That’s like asking students if they want to keep their favorite substitute. Pierce deserves credit for steadying the ship when the Raiders needed it most. However, he has to sell the organization that he can hire the right offensive staff, develop a quarterback and build an identity over the next 3-10 years.

Pierce will definitely be coveted for defensive coordinator jobs and college football head coaching gigs even if the Raiders don’t hire him. However, he has to close this year out with a big win over the Donkeys to make him the favorite. It’s hard to not hire him if the key players like Adams and Crosby continue to play well, despite nothing but pride and their head coach’s future to play for.

In the end, the Raiders need to run the ball and stop the run. A high scoring out will be surprising given the strength of these defenses and the lack of elite quarterback play. Therefore, the team that can commit the most big plays and force the most turnovers should secure the win. Vegas needs their defense to get more than one sack and force a turnover. They can’t let the Broncos get their first win in Vegas, nor can they finish below them in the AFC West standings. Regardless, the Raiders need to Just Win Baby!

Plus, I’m in Vegas and going to Allegiant for the first time. I really want to see a win but I’m talking shit no matter what.

Ending 2023 with a Bang and Our Favorite Christmas gift

Santa delivered Raider Nation a win over the Chiefs. Some could say the Raiders stole a win like the Grinch in Kansas City too. Either way, it was a statement win this team needed.

The victory was far from perfect but the Raiders did what they had to. Maxx Crosby didn’t have a sack but Malcolm Koonce broke out with three sacks of his own. The defense scored two touchdowns on a day when the offense completed less than 50 percent of their passes. Davante Adams finished with less than ten receiving yards but Zamir White rushed for over 145 yards, including averaging more than 6 yards per carry.

The Raiders have great odds of making the postseason if they win out. It’s hard to deny Antonio Pierce the full time head coaching position if he can finish the year with four straight wins, including decisive wins over the entire AFC West. That’s what they can do if they win this game and beat the Broncos last week.

A lot of folks also like this team’s defensive identity much more than the team that made the Wild Card round a few seasons ago under Rich Bisaccia. Nonetheless, they’ll need to show a little more offense this week versus the Colts. Their defense run game is not going to get overlooked or slip thru the cracks anymore.

Still, the job isn’t done. We’ve seen previous Raiders teams blow it in these spots. The Raiders also narrowly defeated the Colts late last season. They were blown out the season before in Indy.

Now, Vegas needs to go into Indianapolis for an early game. The Colts are still alive in the Wild Card race and they are fighting for their division title. Michael Pittman Jr. is expected to return a week after missing the last game due to concussion protocol. Jonathan Taylor is also making his second consecutive start after missing some time with injury. Both are more explosive than the backfield or receiving options the Raiders faced last week.

This Raiders defense will be tasked with not giving up any big plays like they did last week. No let downs against Gardner Mishnew, a week after making Patrick Mahomes look pedestrian. They are also going to need to be discipline and to make tackles. Taylor can easily take one to the house.

Additionally, the offensive line must take on DeForest Buckner. Last week, Chris Jones was extra disruptive in the first half. The Raiders did a better job on him in the second half as the running game started to ware down the Chiefs defense. Buckner is similar player but he plays with more strength and is better inside. The Raiders interior offensive line needs to show up Sunday. They can’t gift the Colts defense any penalties either.

Additionally, the Raiders need to get the ball to Davante Adams. Expect Indianapolis to load the box. White won’t get the benefit of the doubt as teams saw what he can do last week. He’ll have to do it against more loaded boxes if the Raiders can’t move the ball in the air.

Therefore, the Raiders need to stick to their identity. Run the ball, make some plays on defense and convert a few big plays in the air. Doing that should be enough to beat a Colts team that has had their own share of adversity this season. It also gives them a shot at controlling their own destiny with a win over Denver next week.

As far as we are concerned, the Raiders postseason began a few weeks ago. This game is a must-win as was the last game and the next game will be too. It’s up to Pierce to make sure the team has no let downs off a huge division win. They got to keep the momentum rolling on a short week versus a team with just as much to play for and just as much adversity to overcome.

Quick Thoughts from Beating the Bolts and Facing the Chiefs

Raiders fans have reasons to celebrate any time the Raiders beat the Chargers. Beating them decisively, ending their season and getting their coach fired helps too. It’s especially great because the Raiders have been on the other side of those ass whoppings. Vegas also gets points for doing it on national TV, without running back Josh Jacobs.

Moving forward, the Raiders have a chance at the playoffs if they win out. They will need a Christmas miracle versus a Chiefs team that has lost two of four since beating the Raiders last month. Worse off, the Raiders came out swinging in that game but only scored three points in the second half. Kansas City came back and won decisively.

Vegas will also be without Josh Jacobs today. Jacobs scored one of his best touchdown runs versus the Chiefs when they played a few weeks ago.

Overall, Vegas was efficient on offense. They spread the ball around and didn’t turn it over. The Raiders just could not convert in big spots. The defense also had no answer for the Chiefs in the second half. They stopped the run but struggled in coverage and tackling. Vegas needed more pressure. That is not all on Marcus Peters, who is no longer with the team.

Vegas needs a similar outing this week. Aiden O’Connell needs to be efficient again. They need to get the ball to Davante Adams early and often. White needs to get in a rhythm as he will make his second start. Michael Mayer needs to come up in the red zone. Hunter Renfrow and Jakobi Meyers need to help move the sticks on third downs.

The defense needs to make plays again. Malcolm Koonce broke out with two sacks and Jerry Tillery got a sack versus his old team. The Raiders need both of them to show up again. Maxx Crosby should be back to his usual self with some added rest. Crosby was banged up when the played the Chiefs last but he still registered a sack. An interception or fumble from the secondary would help too.

Even with a well executed game plan, the Raiders could easily lose this game. The Chiefs are that good. They need a statement win to give them some momentum headed into the last two weeks and playoffs. Eliminating the Raiders from playoff talks could be great for them proving their dominance again.

Vegas interim head coach Antonio Pierce needs to prove he learned from the first matchup. He can’t have the team coming out flat like they have at times this year. Pierce needs to show he can make halftime adjustments, regardless what happens in the first half. It will be hard for the Raiders to not keep Pierce if he beats the Chiefs and this team wills it’s way into the playoffs.

Either way, he’s coaching for his job in Vegas and beyond. Pierce has done enough to show he belongs as coach but he needs to show he can beat the whole division if he wants to be the long term leader. He needs to show he can win a game he should lose. The good thing is, he beat the Chargers and has a chance to beat the Chiefs before playing the Colts next week and the Broncos in the final game. Both Denver and Indianapolis have postseason considerations to play for. They need some help as do the Raiders but the point is the games matter.

Wins and losses will matter for Pierce’s future as well as the direction of this team. Hopefully, he and Santa can deliver a win over the Chiefs.

Three Points?! And How To Not Get Swept by the Chargers

The Vegas Raiders couldn’t score a single touchdown off a Bye Week. They faced a Vikings team down their starting quarterback, running back and elite receiver. Therefore, the shutout should not be a surprised.

Two sacks from Maxx Crosby and the sack from rookie Tyree Wilson were welcomed celebrations. The Raiders also forced nine punts.

Yet, Vegas threw an interception with a chance to take the lead in the fourth quarter. That was on top of two lost fumbles and four sacks. The offense looked uninspired despite many folks celebrating Antonio Pierce’s early success as a head coach.

Now, they face a Los Angeles Chargers team that is equally underwhelming. The Chargers are off a loss where they only scored once. They also lost their starting quarterback for the season, on top of injuries throughout the roster all year.

Their defense is filled with high profile names but they’ve yet to put together a great collective performance for four quarters. Khalil Mack destroyed the Raiders offensive line the first time around. Now, he’s among the sack leaders and looking to do it again.

Vegas will be down Josh Jacobs. Davante Adams is battling illness. They were going back and forth on starting Aiden O’Connell again. This could be another long offensive bout.

Still, Zamir White looked good as the lead back in camp when Jacobs held out. White finally gets his chance to make a start and be the lead back. He’s yet to really get more than five carries so it’s hard to really judge what he can do at the NFL level.

Ultimately, the Raiders can’t come out flat again in another home game. That won’t fly versus a divisional opponent also playing for roster spots and coaching jobs.

Fans should expect a sloppy game with both teams on short rest and lacking competent quarterback play. Both teams offer defenses that can give up yards.

Offensive line play will be huge. Vegas is towards the bottom in sacks, versus L.A. is the second best at sacking the quarterback. Despite that, the Chargers have one of the worst pass defenses. They don’t really control the clock with the run game and they’re liable to give up big plays.

Vegas on the other hand, has had more interceptions and given up less passing yards. Vegas has given up more rushing yards, while the Chargers have been more stout against the run. One could say Los Angeles has more outright talent and athleticism.

Either way, both defenses are liable to make plays and give up plays. That means special teams will also be an important area for both teams. It may come down to field goal kickers bailing out stalled out offenses and punters trying to put the other in bad positions to help the defense. Vegas should win this aspect of the game but they need to execute and limit mistakes.

Moreover, whatever elite receiver can make the most of whatever opportunities they get from their mediocre quarterback will make the difference. Chargers receiver Keenan Allen can eat up the Raiders. Vegas receiver Davante Adams can cook the Bolts. Problem is, Allen will catch the ball from Easton Stick. Adams will work with O’Connell who hasn’t looked great the last few games. Both receivers need to make a big play to give their team a chance.

Similarly, both defenses need to create a turnover. Whatever offense can capitalize on a fumble or interception could make a huge difference for the team.

Otherwise, the Raiders formula shouldn’t change much for the Raiders. The run game and offensive line must be established. They got to spread the ball around and find ways to convert a big shot. Vegas needs to stop the run, minimize big plays and create a turnover on defense. If they can do that, they can come away with a home win.

At this point, they’re really just playing for their job and Antonio Pierce’s job. Pierce knows how big this rivalry game his. He knows they can’t lose another game at home. Therefore, his team can’t have many mistakes and they can’t come out flat. They can’t afford any penalties like the last time they faced the Chargers, either.

Bye Week Blues After the Chiefs and How to Spoil Justin Jefferson’s Return

There’s a lot of talk about Antonio Pierce assuming the permanent head coach position. Pierce has the team coming out strong but he needs to do more after halftime before he really earns that job. Vegas hasn’t exactly beat a team they weren’t supposed to since he took the reins.

At 5-7, the Raiders exit their Bye Week at last in the AFC West. They also trail the Bills, Bengals, Browns, Steelers, Texans, Colts and Broncos for the three AFC Wild Card slots. Sunday versus the Vikings is a must win to keep any of those playoff hopes alive.

The Vegas Raiders came out hot versus the Chiefs in Week 12. Their 14-point lead early in the second quarter didn’t help them as they were outscored 31-3 after that.

Afterwards, player like Amik Robertson expressed their frustration. Robertson said he thought the were better than the Chiefs but they did not execute. Vegas gave up ten points in the final quarter and didn’t score anything.

Veteran corner Marcus Peters was cut. He was benched before halftime. It looked like the decision to let him go was made at halftime. There are plenty of memes about his tackling and effort. However, you can’t make him the scapegoat. He was tuned in with them team and helped them play with swagger. The secondary did not play better when he sat. We will see how they do without the veteran this week.

Josh Jacobs came out strong with a 63-yard touchdown versus Kansas City. Jacobs had one of his best games of the season with 110 rushing yards on 20 carries. Vegas’ offensive line looked better. The line didn’t dominate in the run but they did just enough to get a body on a body. They also only allowed one sack to the Chiefs.

The Raiders really got the ball to their playmakers. Davante Adams had 5 catches for 73 yards. Jakobi Meyers registered 79 receiving yards for one touchdown. Hunter Renfrow added 4 catches for 38 receiving yards. They just didn’t always execute when they needed it most.

Maxx Crosby wasn’t supposed to play. However, he came up with a sack. The team didn’t look the same when he wasn’t on the field.

Turnovers have been huge for the Raiders this year, but the group failed to create one versus the Chiefs. The inconsistent pass rush deserves some blame for that.

Vegas’ pass rush must be at its best this week versus Minnesota. Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson is back from IR. Jefferson has been practicing with the team for a couple of weeks since Minnesota is also off a Bye Week. The Silver and Black secondary will need all the help they can get from their pass rush, no matter how rusty Jefferson comes out.

Not to mention, Vikings quarterback Josh Dobbs is a dual-threat. He’s cooled off since starting hot after Minnesota traded for him from Arizona. Dobbs still has 400 rushing, including 29 first downs. He’s also thrown for 2,400 passing yards, 13 sacks and 10 interceptions. The Raiders will need to stay discipline versus the Vikings as they look to contain Dobbs and Jefferson.

The Raiders need to stick to their script. Vegas needs to control the clock by establishing the run with Jacobs early and often. They need to keep spreading the ball around. Hopefully, an extra week of preparation gets rookie QB Aiden O’Connell more in sync with his veteran receivers. O’Connell has missed a few game changing shots over the past few starts. Vegas is going to need one of those, particularly if they Jefferson tears them up.

Defensively, the Raiders have to count on Crosby getting home. They also need someone else to get home. This should force Dobbs into making a mistake. The Raiders secondary also needs to come up with a turnover to keep this game in reach.

Moreover, the Raiders need to contain TJ Hockenson in the middle of the field. Hockenson is a big and physical target who can give the Raiders problem in the short and intermediate game.

Minnesota should also look to establish the run with Alexander Mattison. Vegas needs to tackle well this week.

On defense, the Raiders must fear Danielle Hunter off the edge. He is among the league’s elite pass rushers with 13.5 sacks this season. MOtherwise, this Vikings front seven has faced injuries with edge Marcus Davenport and linebacker Jordan Hicks on IR currently.

The Raiders offense faces a winnable matchup. Nonetheless, Minnesota has enough playmakers to keep them in the game. innesota’s defense features Harrison Smith, who is still among the league’s best hybrid safeties. Rookie Ivan Pace plays all over the field. Byron Murphy has three interceptions this season.

Overall, it’s a home game and the Raiders desperately need a win. Pierce must have his team come out with urgency but he also needs to be able to adjust no matter what happens. This could be an easy win, a last team standing defensive match, a sloppy close out or an offensive shootout. Either way, the Raiders need to just win, baby.

Look for the Raiders to run the ball and take some selective shots in the pass game on offense. They must rush the passer, tackle well and create a turnover or two on defense. If they can do that, they should squeeze out a home victory. A win here will keep Pierce in the long-term coaching conversation too.

Beat the Chiefs and Thoughts from Miami

The Raiders last beat the Chiefs in October 2020. Before that, they last beat them in October 2017. Therefore, Vegas is due an upset over their AFC West rival.

Kansas City is off a close loss to the Eagles on Monday Night. They were a few drops away from really making that game a blowout. Philadelphia showed you can beat Kansas City with consistent play from your running game and front seven. The Raiders should expect Kansas City to come out focused on execution this week.

Still, Kansas City narrowly escaped the Dolphins the week prior to playing Philly. They also lost by two scores to the Denver Broncos. The Chiefs are beatable if the Raiders play their game.

Last week, the Raiders fought hard versus a more talented Dolphins team. Per usual, they had no answer for Tyreek Hill. Hill left the game midway with injury and still finished with way over 100 yards receiving.

The Raiders defense still made enough plays and created enough turnovers to keep the team in reach. They needed more from their pass rush as far as sacks but they did a good job finding ways to get off the field on tough spots.

Unfortunately, Aiden O’Connell missed on a few shots that would’ve changed the game. He also threw three interceptions. O’Connell can’t afford another week like that.

Still, The Raiders also gave up on the run too early. They were trying to get Davante Adams engaged early. But they should’ve stuck with the run, particularly with left tackle Kolton Miller out. It only takes one big dash from Josh Jacobs and his entire yards per carry would have went up. That’s what’s crazy about yards per carry

Miller along with guard Dylan Parham are listed as questionable versus Kansas City. The Raiders will need to establish the run to control the clock and keep the Chiefs offense off the field. That’s hard to do if the Raiders get down big early. A few turnovers from the Raiders defense should also help negate any big plays from the Chiefs.

Maxx Crosby was listed as doubtful but he’s expected to play. The Raiders will need his pass rush versus Pat Mahomes and the Chiefs. Vegas needs someone else to step up and make some plays too. Tyree Wilson could be an x-factor this week. Either way, the interior lineman must be stout against the run too. Kansas City is too hard to beat when their running backs are engaged and clicking.

The Chiefs can get away from their run game. However, I expect them to rely on that given their receivers deficiencies. Regardless, we know Travis Kelce is a problem. The Raiders linebacker corps has dealt with injuries all season. They will be on notice. Hopefully safety Trevon Moehrig can play as the Raiders will need his help over the top.

A lot of people hope Vegas will sign All-Pro LB Darius Leonard after he was released by the Colts. Leonard makes a lot of sense as he can really play any of the linebacker spots. He’s a ball hawk, tackle machine and turnover creator. Leonard would fit nice to Spillane and the Raiders bulky interior front. Only issue is Leonard has dealt with injuries and inconsistent playing time over the last three seasons. It would still be cool if Vegas had him in this game for support in the middle.

Ultimately, the Raiders got to get the best out of what they have on their roster. They need to execute to the best of their ability to even have a chance in this game. Moreover, their best chance will come from sticking to their game plan.

The game plan needs to revolve around establishing the run and helping O’Connell find a rhythm with some easy passes. Vegas can not afford to not capitalize on good field positions or turnovers again. They need to run the ball on the first two downs to setup east third down conversions. Then they can mix in the deep shots to keep the defense honest.

On defense, they need to stay the course and play discipline versus the run. They need to find ways to pressure the quarterback and create some turnovers. Vegas has been able to do that in key spots this year. Most of all, they can’t get rattled if they give up a big play. They must have a bend don’t break mentality.

A loss here will bury the Raiders deeper in the AFC Wild Card race. Regardless, this home game versus a stronger opponent should tell us what we need to know about this Raiders team and head coach Antonio Pierce. Any one can coach when the team is winning. But how do you bounce back after a tough road loss? Will guys still respond and stick to the plan? What energy will they bring to their home field versus a rival that features a more talented roster?

If Vegas can pull out a win here, Pierce has a really strong case to keep his job. A loss wouldn’t mean a final verdict. However, it’s more important the Raiders keep their swagger and identify regardless if they win or lose.

Nonetheless, nobody wants silver linings. Raider Nation wants to beat the Chiefs. They want to stay in the playoff race. Let’s see if the Raiders can deliver. Just Win Baby!